Midlands Engine Investment Fund II: Unlocking Growth for Marches Businesses

Published: June 26th, 2026

The Midlands Engine Investment Fund II (MEIF II) is one of the most significant finance opportunities currently available to small and medium‑sized businesses across the region.  

Launched by the British Business Bank, the £400 million fund is designed to boost growth, drive innovation and help more businesses access the finance they need to scale.  

MEIF II focuses on supporting businesses that may otherwise struggle to secure investment, helping to break down long‑standing barriers to finance and strengthening the region’s economic resilience.  

The fund also embeds Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) considerations into its design, supporting the UK’s wider transition to net zero.  

What the Fund Supports 

MEIF II offers a broad range of commercial finance options to meet the needs of businesses at different stages of their journey. These include: 

Smaller loans from £25,000 to £100,000 

Debt finance from £100,000 to £2 million 

Equity investment of up to £5 million 

These options are delivered through appointed fund managers across the Midlands and the fund is open to businesses across all sectors, from early‑stage innovators to established companies looking to accelerate growth.  

Recent investments highlight the fund’s impact. For example, Telford‑based pet food company Different Dog secured a £1.5 million MEIF II loan to support the development of a new state‑of‑the‑art kitchen. 

Eligibility Criteria 

To apply for MEIF II, businesses must: 

• Be small or medium‑sized enterprises (SMEs) based in the Midlands or having a significant operating presence in the region. 

• Demonstrate a viable business model and clear growth potential. 

• Meet the specific criteria of the chosen finance product which may vary by fund manager. 

The fund is particularly focused on supporting businesses that may not otherwise receive investment, ensuring finance reaches companies with strong potential but limited access to traditional funding routes.  

Start Your Journey with the Marches Growth Hub 

For businesses in Herefordshire, Shropshire and Telford & Wrekin, the Marches Growth Hub is the ideal first stop. 

Our advisers can help you understand the MEIF II options, assess your eligibility and connect you with the right fund managers. We also offer wider guidance on grants, loans, innovation support and growth planning. 

If you’re exploring finance to scale, innovate or invest in your future, start with the Support Finder on the Marches Growth Hub website.